More
Than the Devil's Due

Cultic
Studies Journal

AbstractAlthough mainstream religious groups tend to discount or minimize belief in the
devil and evil spirits, fundamentalists,
charismatic, shepherding/discipleship groups,
and Bible-based cults do not. Indeed, in some groups, an emphasis on the devil and/or evil
spirits becomes a tool for the manipulation of consciences. In the People of Praise, which
this article uses as an example, a heightened fear of the devil or evil spirits can be
used to (a) put pressure on wavering members to stay in the group, (b) elevate the
importance of the group and its leaders, (c) enhance the leaders' control of the
membership by reinforcing the notion that
Satan
can even work through good people and only the leaders can discern his designs, and (d)
undermine members' confidence in their own judgment, especially about spiritual
development. The fears inculcated in members can cause considerable psychological distress
when they ultimately leave their groups.